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00:00:01 Welcome to JW Broadcasting. 00:00:04 What do we have for you on this month’s program? 00:00:07 We’ll hear the story of Cecil Goff, 00:00:10 an elder and regular pioneer with over 80 years in Jehovah’s service. 00:00:15 What valuable lessons from his experience 00:00:18 can you apply to your life and ministry? 00:00:22 Whether we are young or old, 00:00:23 how can we make good decisions when choosing entertainment? 00:00:27 In this dramatization, we’ll see how a young brother named Danny 00:00:32 learns the value of sowing 00:00:34 what is wholesome in his mind. 00:00:37 Has a challenge in your life ever been so severe 00:00:40 that you felt overwhelmed? 00:00:42 When anxiety stirs within us, 00:00:45 this new music video 00:00:47 can reassure us of Jehovah’s loving support. 00:00:52 This is JW Broadcasting for September 2018. 00:01:17 We start this month with the story of Brother Cecil Goff. 00:01:21 Cecil is 99 years old 00:01:23 and has served Jehovah for over 80 years. 00:01:27 He’s spent many of those years in full-time service. 00:01:31 He had the privilege to serve at Brooklyn Bethel, 00:01:33 as a circuit overseer, as a Gilead-trained missionary, 00:01:37 and as a branch overseer in Cuba. 00:01:40 As you watch his interview, 00:01:42 try to determine why he’s convinced 00:01:45 that his life in Jehovah’s service was more rewarding 00:01:48 than anything the world had to offer. 00:01:51 My name is Cecil Joseph Goff. 00:01:55 I began to lose eyesight in the ’70’s. 00:01:58 I can’t see to read or anything. 00:02:00 I see only peripheral vision. 00:02:04 I was playing in a country band at a very young age. 00:02:10 Well, I played the tenor banjo, tenor guitar, and I played the mandolin. 00:02:15 It was my life. 00:02:17 And yet, when I began reading and studying, 00:02:20 really, I wanted to stick with that, 00:02:22 and I left the band. 00:02:25 I started pioneering, 00:02:27 and then they assigned me to Texarkana, Texas. 00:02:31 Another brother and I were stopped 00:02:35 as we were holding the phonograph up, 00:02:37 and I was playing it for a lady at the door. 00:02:40 Why, here about 15 or 20 men surrounded me. 00:02:44 I asked him, “How did you enjoy it?” 00:02:46 And he said: “That’s not the question. 00:02:48 My question is, Do you salute the flag?” 00:02:50 And I said, “Let me explain it.” 00:02:51 He said: “I don’t want an explanation. 00:02:53 I just want to know yes or no; do you or do you not?” 00:02:57 I said, “I do not.” 00:02:59 He threw me up in the air. 00:03:01 I fell on my back in the street there, 00:03:03 and then about three of them got on top of me. 00:03:06 He said: “You’re going to salute the flag or eat it. 00:03:08 Bring me that flag over there.” 00:03:10 I was praying to Jehovah to remember me in the resurrection. 00:03:13 About that time, several women ran out of the houses on both sides of us: 00:03:18 “Leave those men alone. They didn’t bother you. 00:03:21 Leave them alone. Let them go.” 00:03:23 So they got off of me, and they left us like a bunch of beaten kittens. 00:03:27 I was asked to go to Brooklyn Bethel and become a member of the Bethel home. 00:03:32 Brother Knorr asked me, “Do you know how to use the typewriter?” 00:03:35 I said, “Yes, I can type.” 00:03:37 He said: “Well, I’m going to put you on a machine. 00:03:40 “It’s called a Linotype. 00:03:42 It has three keyboards.” 00:03:44 And he said: “And it will take you about two years to learn it. 00:03:46 Are you willing to accept it?” 00:03:48 And I said, “Yes, I will.” 00:03:50 So I was put on the Linotype. 00:03:53 I got married in the fall of 1945 and left Bethel. 00:03:57 Well, we were invited in 1949 00:04:01 to go into the circuit work. 00:04:03 We were in the 21st class of Gilead. 00:04:05 We enjoyed that course very much. 00:04:07 We received an assignment for Cuba, 00:04:09 and I was assigned as branch overseer. 00:04:12 And in ’63, 00:04:16 the police car came 00:04:19 up to the branch at about ten o’clock at night. 00:04:21 I was told to take my papers, 00:04:23 and we went over to the police station, and so forth. 00:04:26 And sure enough, soon thereafter, here comes an official. 00:04:30 He said, “You have to leave Cuba 00:04:32 because you’re not in favor of the Cuban government.” 00:04:36 A person asked a policeman standing close by, he said, 00:04:41 “Who are these people that are being sent out of the country?” 00:04:44 And they said: “Over there,” 00:04:47 talking about me, 00:04:48 “see that gangster man over there? 00:04:50 He’s the head of it.” 00:04:52 So then we got on the plane and headed back. 00:04:55 I got in contact with Brooklyn Bethel, 00:04:58 talked to Brother Knorr, and he said, 00:05:00 “As soon as you can, in the next day or two, come back to Bethel.” 00:05:03 And Brother Knorr said, “You got back just in time 00:05:06 “to get back on the Linotype machine 00:05:08 to set up a new book we have in Spanish.” 00:05:11 So I did that and got on the Linotype. 00:05:15 And then Brother Knorr told me, he said, 00:05:18 “In 1964, we’re going to have a ten-month course in Gilead 00:05:21 for all branch people who have branch experience.” 00:05:26 Oh, it was very, very good. 00:05:28 We studied a lot, not only the Bible 00:05:30 (we studied a lot on the Bible, discourse and everything) 00:05:33 but we studied a lot of branch material too. 00:05:38 Above everything else, our love for Jehovah should continue to grow. 00:05:43 He knows our thoughts, our mind, our heart. 00:05:46 He goes far beyond what man can do. 00:05:48 And whatever his decision is, 00:05:50 I’ve learned to understand that it’s the best decision. 00:05:54 I have learned that if we obey what the organization says 00:05:59 and what the Bible says, then we’re doing Jehovah’s will; 00:06:02 and that’s my concern 00:06:03 —no regrets whatsoever, none. 00:06:08 Maybe I could’ve done more at times, 00:06:10 but I’m certainly glad that I have taken advantage of it 00:06:13 as much as I have up until now. 00:06:15 And it’s been a happy life. 00:06:17 And I have seen Jehovah’s hand 00:06:20 time and again. 00:06:24 Brother Goff has led a full, happy life in theocratic service. 00:06:29 But do you wonder, 00:06:31 ‘How was he able to persevere for so many years 00:06:34 and through so many different assignments?’ 00:06:37 Cecil learned the value 00:06:39 of letting Jehovah and his organization 00:06:41 shape his thinking. 00:06:44 But he had to make a choice as a young man, 00:06:46 a choice all of Jehovah’s servants have to make. 00:06:50 And that’s the basis for our discussion this month. 00:06:54 The theme is 00:06:56 “Stop Being Molded by This System of Things.” 00:06:59 In describing godly wisdom, 00:07:01 the ancient man Job 00:07:03 recognized it as priceless. 00:07:06 At Job 28:17, he said: 00:07:08 “Gold and glass cannot be compared to it.” 00:07:12 Glass —it has been around for centuries, 00:07:17 even back in Job’s day. 00:07:19 However, what revolutionized glass production 00:07:22 was the invention of glassblowing. 00:07:25 By blowing through a hollow tube, 00:07:27 a glassblower can quickly mold superheated molten glass 00:07:32 into a specific shape. 00:07:35 Satan’s system has developed the art 00:07:38 of shaping the minds of people 00:07:41 into fragile glass vessels with little useful purpose. 00:07:45 In fact, Romans 9:22 refers to such ones 00:07:49 as “vessels of wrath made fit for destruction.” 00:07:55 Find with me Romans 12:2. 00:07:59 What is responsible for molding and shaping 00:08:03 the inclinations of the people of the world? 00:08:06 Romans 12:2: 00:08:08 “And stop being molded by this system of things, 00:08:12 “but be transformed by making your mind over, 00:08:16 “so that you may prove to yourselves 00:08:18 the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” 00:08:23 To counteract “being molded,” the verse said: 00:08:26 “But be transformed by making your mind over.” 00:08:30 So the molding of this system is related to our thinking 00:08:34 —the shaping of our minds. 00:08:37 Well, what evil air is blown down the hollow tube? 00:08:42 It’s identified quite clearly for us at Ephesians 2:2, 3. 00:08:49 Concerning a Christian’s previous unclean thinking and behavior, 00:08:53 verse 2 says: 00:08:54 “In which you at one time walked 00:08:57 “according to the system of things of this world, 00:09:00 “according to the ruler of the authority of the air, 00:09:05 the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience.” 00:09:10 The verse makes clear that this “system of things” has a ruler. 00:09:15 Satan is called “the ruler of the authority of the air.” 00:09:19 The verse indicates that “the air” is “the spirit” of the world. 00:09:24 Well, with such a mind-set, 00:09:26 what kind of behavior does the thinking of the world lead to? 00:09:30 Verse 3: 00:09:32 “Yes, among them we all at one time conducted ourselves 00:09:36 “in harmony with the desires of our flesh, 00:09:40 “carrying out the will of the flesh and of our thoughts, 00:09:45 and we were naturally children of wrath just as the rest.” 00:09:49 For this reason, they become 00:09:52 “vessels of wrath made fit for destruction.” 00:09:56 Glassblowers often work in groups known as “shops.” 00:10:00 An apprentice dips a hollow blowpipe into the liquid glass. 00:10:05 By twirling it, he gathers a blob of molten glass. 00:10:09 He shapes the blob by rolling it 00:10:12 on a smooth surface called a marver. 00:10:15 He then passes the tube to the gaffer, or shop master. 00:10:19 He blows air into the tube and fashions the glass into a globe. 00:10:24 If a wine glass is being made, 00:10:26 the tube is then passed to the stem-maker 00:10:29 and another gather of glass is attached. 00:10:32 It is then shaped by means of long-pointed tongs 00:10:35 to form the stem. 00:10:37 Then, another gather of hot glass is added to the stem. 00:10:42 The craftsman rolls the tube on the arm of his chair. 00:10:45 He forms the base of the glass. 00:10:49 We will briefly consider four ways 00:10:52 that this system subtly tries to shape 00:10:55 our mind into Satan’s designs. 00:10:58 The first is harmful peer pressure. 00:11:02 Now, often this is just an apprentice in Satan’s shop 00:11:06 —maybe fellow students in school, fellow workers on the job. 00:11:10 Don’t you think Satan will try to capitalize 00:11:13 on these circumstantial relationships? 00:11:16 Absolutely! 00:11:18 Peer pressure —it can have an influence on our mind. 00:11:23 They may make fun of our wholesome morals, 00:11:26 our clean speech, our dignified dress. 00:11:29 That is pressure. 00:11:31 Possibly, they invite us to do things that we know will lead to no good. 00:11:36 They are twirling us 00:11:38 with their thinking, with their taunts, 00:11:40 or maybe with their flattery and temptation. 00:11:43 They are rolling things over and over in our mind. 00:11:49 Turn to 2 Peter 2:18, 19. 00:11:54 And as you read this, 00:11:56 can you pick out a word that is equivalent to peer pressure? 00:12:01 Let’s read 00:12:02 2 Peter 2:18, 19: 00:12:05 “They make high-sounding statements that are empty [like air]. 00:12:10 “By appealing to the desires of the flesh and with acts of brazen conduct, 00:12:14 “they entice [that’s peer pressure] people 00:12:19 “who have just escaped from those who live in error. 00:12:22 “While they are promising them freedom, 00:12:25 “they themselves are slaves of corruption; 00:12:28 “for if anyone is overcome by someone, 00:12:31 he is his slave.” 00:12:35 The verse says that if we are overcome by peer pressure—enticed— 00:12:38 we actually become a “slave” of that person. 00:12:41 That is scary! 00:12:43 It’s dangerous! 00:12:45 Peer pressure is deceptively strong. 00:12:49 Well, what is another way that the spirit of this system 00:12:51 can shape our thinking? 00:12:53 You recall that the apprentice passed the glassblowing tube 00:12:57 to the gaffer who blew air into the glass, giving it shape. 00:13:02 What does Satan and this system next use to mold our thinking? 00:13:08 Enticing advertisements. 00:13:11 Like the air of a glassblower, 00:13:13 advertisements often have little substance. 00:13:17 For example, that product we decided to buy 00:13:21 when we last went shopping. 00:13:23 Maybe it was a brand of clothing 00:13:25 or a brand of dry cereal we bought for breakfast. 00:13:28 Is that always purely a personal, rational decision on our part? 00:13:33 Or did advertising 00:13:36 subtly but powerfully affect our choice? 00:13:41 Now, it’s not that all advertising is bad or misleading. 00:13:45 But the more we allow ourselves to be influenced by it, 00:13:48 the more we are in danger of being led into a materialistic way of life. 00:13:54 For example, instead of dry cereal, 00:13:57 are we now influenced to buy that flashy-looking sports car? 00:14:02 Turn to 1 John 2:15-17. 00:14:08 This system inflates our thinking by means of “things.” 00:14:12 First John 2:15, 16: 00:14:15 “Do not love either the world or the things in the world. 00:14:19 “If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him; 00:14:23 “because everything in the world 00:14:26 “—the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes 00:14:30 “and the showy display of one’s means of life— 00:14:33 “does not originate with the Father, 00:14:35 but originates with the world.” 00:14:38 Why do we need to resist catering 00:14:41 to advertisements that feed the spirit of the world? 00:14:44 Verse 17: 00:14:46 “Furthermore, the world is passing away 00:14:50 “and so is its desire, 00:14:53 but the one who does the will of God remains forever.” 00:14:58 Remember Eve! 00:15:00 Satan advertised the forbidden fruit. 00:15:04 The scripture says it was “desirable to the eyes, 00:15:07 . . . the tree was pleasing to look at.” 00:15:10 She succumbed to the advertisement 00:15:13 with disastrous results. 00:15:16 Similarly, Satan used advertisements to try to reshape Jesus’ focus. 00:15:21 Matthew chapter 4 says that Satan 00:15:23 “showed him all the kingdoms of the world,” 00:15:27 offering them in exchange for one act of worship. 00:15:33 Jesus simply turned him off. 00:15:39 Don’t be overly influenced by advertisements. 00:15:43 What’s the next aspect of this system that can distort our minds? 00:15:48 Bad associations. 00:15:51 It is as if the gaffer has now passed the glassblowing tube 00:15:54 to the stem-maker. 00:15:56 He takes another gather of molten glass 00:15:59 and attaches it to our globe. 00:16:02 Then he stretches that associated blob 00:16:05 into the form of a stem. 00:16:08 Well, we already talked about peer pressure, 00:16:11 but that often comes from those who are not necessarily 00:16:14 our close associates. 00:16:16 What we’re discussing now is our decisions 00:16:20 about whom we spend a lot of time with. 00:16:23 People who don’t love Jehovah can stretch and misshape our minds, 00:16:28 providing a stem or a handle for the world to hold us by. 00:16:34 Turn to 1 Corinthians 15:33. 00:16:38 Sometimes we hear the phrase that some of the kids in school 00:16:43 are nicer than some of the kids in the congregation. 00:16:47 But usually, nicer actually means more fun 00:16:51 rather than more wholesome. 00:16:54 But let’s look at 1 Corinthians 15:33 in its context. 00:16:59 What did the apostle Paul mean 00:17:01 when he said to the Corinthians “bad associations”? 00:17:06 First Corinthians 15:33: 00:17:09 “Do not be misled. 00:17:11 Bad associations spoil useful habits.” 00:17:16 But what made these ones bad association? 00:17:19 Let’s see it in context. 00:17:21 Look at 1 Corinthians 15:12: 00:17:25 “Now if it is being preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, 00:17:29 how is it that some among you say there is no resurrection of the dead?” 00:17:35 Well, what was the initial problem with these associates? 00:17:39 They did not believe the same way. 00:17:42 Why would that make them bad associations? 00:17:45 Because what an associate believes 00:17:48 will eventually affect our thinking, 00:17:51 and our thinking affects our behavior. 00:17:55 Notice how Paul describes this. 00:17:57 Look at 1 Corinthians 15:32. 00:18:01 What good is it to endure the rigors of the Christian race for life 00:18:06 if there is no resurrection, no future, no hope? 00:18:09 Verse 32: 00:18:11 “If like other men, I have fought with wild beasts at Ephesus, 00:18:15 “of what good is it to me? 00:18:17 “If the dead are not to be raised up, 00:18:19 ‘let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we are to die.’” 00:18:24 May all of us avoid bad association 00:18:27 whether in person, on TV, or on the Internet. 00:18:33 What’s a fourth means by which Satan 00:18:35 attempts to fashion us, reshaping our thinking? 00:18:39 Higher education. 00:18:42 Most of us remember the January 2015 JW Broadcasting program 00:18:47 hosted by Brother Morris of the Governing Body. 00:18:51 He focused on the value of divine education. 00:18:55 But he also reaffirmed 00:18:57 the dangers of pursuing higher secular education. 00:19:01 Its whole purpose is for learning —influencing one’s thinking. 00:19:06 And while a person’s intention might be just to create 00:19:09 a stable base for his secular future, 00:19:13 his decision could expose him 00:19:15 to unscriptural ideas and practices. 00:19:20 Back to the glass shop. 00:19:22 Recall that another gather of hot glass 00:19:25 is added to the end of the stem. 00:19:27 The craftsman then rolls the tube backward and forward. 00:19:31 He forms the base for the glass. 00:19:35 Well, we will say no more about this topic 00:19:38 other than what Brother Morris has already shared. 00:19:41 You might want to go back and review that broadcast. 00:19:45 However, we would like to read 1 Timothy 6:20, 21: 00:19:50 “Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you 00:19:55 “[that’s divine education], 00:19:57 “turning away from the empty speeches that violate what is holy 00:20:01 “and from the contradictions 00:20:03 “of the falsely called ‘knowledge.’ 00:20:06 “By making a show of such knowledge, 00:20:09 some have deviated from the faith.” 00:20:13 Unfortunately, in an effort to make 00:20:16 a stable base for one’s financial future, 00:20:19 many “have deviated from the faith.” 00:20:24 In the visuals of a glassblowing shop, 00:20:26 we observed the skill of the workers involved. 00:20:30 And that shop obviously produces 00:20:32 beautiful, useful glass vessels. 00:20:36 Satan’s glass shop is also skilled at shaping one’s thinking. 00:20:41 But what does it produce? 00:20:44 Instead of a person becoming a valuable vessel that Jehovah can use, 00:20:48 Satan is actually mass-producing 00:20:52 worthless vessels that Jehovah cannot use. 00:20:56 What could you do with this misshaped creation? 00:21:00 Nothing —it is useless. 00:21:03 At the outset, Romans 9:22 was quoted. 00:21:07 Those who conform to Satan’s system are referred to 00:21:10 as “vessels of wrath made fit for destruction.” 00:21:18 Jehovah has paid a high price for us. 00:21:21 Gold and glass cannot be compared to it. 00:21:24 May we make over our minds by applying godly wisdom. 00:21:28 Glorify Jehovah as a vessel that he can use. 00:21:32 First Corinthians 6:20 concludes this discussion nicely, saying: 00:21:37 “For you were bought with a price. 00:21:40 By all means, glorify God in your body.” 00:21:45 How else may the world try to mold us? 00:21:48 Another way is through the entertainment it produces. 00:21:52 How can we choose entertainment that will enhance 00:21:56 and not taint our sacrifice to Jehovah? 00:21:59 In the following dramatization, 00:22:02 notice how a fellow Christian 00:22:04 helps a young brother to make better choices. 00:22:32 I promised Akil I’d go out in service with him after school. 00:22:35 Hey, we’re just waiting in the car. 00:22:41 And I kept my word, 00:22:49 but my head just wasn’t in it. 00:22:57 Akil could tell, so he tried to see if everything was OK. 00:23:04 Honestly, at the time, 00:23:06 I would have rather been playing video games, 00:23:11 but I couldn’t tell him that. 00:23:15 I mean, he’s a pioneer, a ministerial servant. 00:23:20 He wouldn’t understand. 00:23:43 Later that week, 00:23:45 Akil invited me to go mountain biking with some friends. 00:23:49 It was actually really fun. 00:23:55 . . . and your croissant. 00:23:56 Great, thanks. 00:23:57 Please let me know if there’s anything else, OK? 00:23:59 All right. Thanks. 00:24:01 So, Danny, you’re obviously good at biking. 00:24:03 What else do you like to do for fun? 00:24:05 OK, so I have this game and it’s called . . . 00:24:07 Soon I was showing him my video games. 00:24:15 And surprisingly, he liked video games too. 00:24:20 But he said he chose to be selective. 00:24:26 He began to describe the gladiators in ancient Rome. 00:24:37 People would come from all over 00:24:39 to watch them fight to the death. 00:24:42 And while the spectators weren’t in any physical danger, 00:24:47 the real danger came over time. 00:24:58 Repeatedly watching the bloodshed and the killing, 00:25:01 it was dulling their senses, and they wanted more of it. 00:25:09 This was a big test for the Christians who lived back then. 00:25:19 Akil helped me to reason on the scripture 00:25:22 at Romans 12:9: 00:25:26 “Abhor what is wicked; cling to what is good.” 00:25:31 So, Danny, 00:25:33 the games may have changed over time, 00:25:35 but the violence is still the same. 00:25:38 I like video games, 00:25:40 but I avoid the ones that promote what Jehovah hates. 00:25:47 Jehovah’s people can still have fun. 00:26:02 And, yeah, we can even play video games. 00:26:06 I just want to make wise choices. 00:26:13 I want to show Jehovah that I hate wickedness 00:26:23 and make his heart glad. 00:26:35 This video is part of a series of videos. 00:26:39 We’re pleased to announce 00:26:41 that all 17 episodes will be made available 00:26:44 under a new “Principles for Daily Living” category. 00:26:49 It can be found in both the “Family” and “Our Meetings and Ministry” sections. 00:26:55 As we saw in this episode, 00:26:57 our choice of entertainment can affect our worship. 00:27:00 We could be exposing ourselves to Satan’s thinking. 00:27:05 If you’re enticed by entertainment that displeases Jehovah, 00:27:09 what Bible principles will help you? 00:27:12 Chapter 6 of the “God’s Love” book 00:27:15 features a box entitled 00:27:17 “What Entertainment Should I Choose?” 00:27:20 Make the scriptures in this feature 00:27:22 a matter of prayer and discussion in family worship. 00:27:26 They will help you “cling to what is good.” 00:27:30 But at times ‘clinging to the good’ 00:27:33 includes receiving discipline, 00:27:36 which can be painful. 00:27:38 How can we look beyond any pain 00:27:41 to the benefits of divine correction? 00:27:45 At a Bethel morning worship, 00:27:47 Brother Anthony Morris, a member of the Governing Body, 00:27:50 discussed how a proper view of discipline 00:27:54 brings us closer to Jehovah. 00:27:57 This morning 00:27:58 I thought I’d discuss the matter 00:28:00 of how a proper view of discipline 00:28:03 keeps us close to Jehovah. 00:28:05 Now, in the context of today’s text 00:28:08 about Jehovah correcting 00:28:09 to the proper degree, 00:28:11 he’s talking to his people about being brought back to their land. 00:28:15 He was not going to exterminate them or leave them, 00:28:19 and it helps us to appreciate that he wanted them 00:28:23 to keep their relationship with him. 00:28:26 Now, today we receive discipline in various ways. 00:28:30 It might be from personal Bible study. 00:28:34 And I was excited this morning 00:28:36 (I don’t know when it happened, maybe last night) 00:28:39 to see that we have in JW Library® 00:28:41 where we can put our personal notes, 00:28:43 and I got started with some already. 00:28:46 So that’ll be like thoughts or discipline from Jehovah 00:28:49 that is just between him and ourselves 00:28:53 —a very beneficial and wise way to go when it comes to discipline. 00:28:57 It keeps us from veering off in our relationship with him. 00:29:01 It might be something we read in a publication; 00:29:03 might hear in a talk at a meeting, at an assembly, 00:29:07 or convention; something in a JW Broadcast 00:29:10 —various ways, any number of ways Jehovah will discipline us. 00:29:15 And we need to remember 00:29:18 that he does it so that we remain close to him. 00:29:21 The problem is discipline is not easy to take. 00:29:26 It requires humility. 00:29:28 And the proper view of discipline is found here in Proverbs chapter 3, 00:29:34 and this gives us the Scriptural basis 00:29:38 to have this proper view of discipline 00:29:40 that’ll keep us close to Jehovah God. 00:29:43 Now, notice verses 11 and 12 of Proverbs chapter 3: 00:29:48 “My son, do not reject the discipline of Jehovah, 00:29:52 “and do not loathe his reproof, 00:29:55 “for those whom Jehovah loves he reproves, 00:29:59 just as a father does a son in whom he delights.” 00:30:03 So how might we reject the discipline of Jehovah? 00:30:07 Well, put yourself in a position of being counseled. 00:30:11 It’s come to the point where overseers and elders 00:30:15 have had to sit down with you. 00:30:17 Now, for some, as soon as the counsel begins to flow, 00:30:21 there’s this quickness to be upset, 00:30:25 to justify, to feel picked on. 00:30:28 Well, Jehovah is saying, ‘Don’t reject this.’ 00:30:32 If they’re using the Scriptures and thoughts from publications, 00:30:36 view it as coming from Jehovah so that we can stay close to him. 00:30:41 Now, to give you an idea, 00:30:44 sometimes reading something will bring us close to Jehovah, 00:30:48 especially if we veered off and didn’t even realize it. 00:30:52 I’m going to go way back to some examples 00:30:55 of Jehovah’s sheep reading something in The Watchtower, 00:31:00 and it just disciplined them so that they could get close to Jehovah. 00:31:04 And it goes way back to 1982, 00:31:07 and it had to do with TV serials, or soap operas. 00:31:11 Some are saying, “Well, that’s a long time ago.” 00:31:14 Well, the fact is nothing has changed. 00:31:17 Some of these soap operas are still on that had the name 00:31:21 that they had in 1982. 00:31:23 They still have it. 00:31:25 So many readers personally benefited from the counsel. 00:31:29 The counsel still applies that was found there. 00:31:31 But I think it’s very touching and commendable 00:31:34 for the ones who read that that they recognized it. 00:31:39 It impacted their relationship with Jehovah, 00:31:41 and they wanted to get close to him. 00:31:43 Now, the cover on The Watchtower was 00:31:46 “TV Serials—Can They Corrupt the Heart?” 00:31:49 And in the opening article, we did say: 00:31:52 “Millions of women and men of all ages, 00:31:56 races and backgrounds will rarely miss a show.” 00:32:00 Well, now you can record them and have them anytime that you like. 00:32:04 It’s still an ongoing problem and an issue for a true Christian, 00:32:09 a worshipper of Jehovah, to make sure we’re not being corrupted 00:32:13 by soap operas, or TV serials. 00:32:16 Now, after the articles came out, 00:32:19 we had some write in to explain what happened to them. 00:32:24 And so months later, after this 1982 issue of The Watchtower 00:32:29 (that was December 1), 00:32:32 we went to the ’83 Watchtower, December 1, 00:32:35 and here’s the response from some of the readers. 00:32:37 And I found it very commendable. 00:32:40 I think you’ll appreciate the humility because it takes humility 00:32:44 to accept and have the proper view of discipline. 00:32:47 So one of the dangers 00:32:49 that the brothers were warned about is that 00:32:52 you can get emotionally attached to the characters in the show. 00:32:57 So here’s what one wrote: 00:32:59 “I had grown up watching this one soap opera 00:33:02 “and the character ‘Julie’ was just like my ‘friend.’ . . . 00:33:06 “One day ‘Julie’ had an accident 00:33:09 “that left her beautiful face badly scarred . . . 00:33:13 “I was in front of the TV set every day 00:33:15 “to make sure she was going to pull through. 00:33:19 “That night as I was saying my prayers, 00:33:22 “before I even thought what I was saying, 00:33:25 I prayed, ‘And Jehovah, please bless Julie.’” 00:33:31 Well, she admits: “‘I was shocked. 00:33:34 “‘[She should’ve been.] 00:33:37 “‘This plea to Jehovah for Julie had come from my heart!’ 00:33:42 “Realizing how involved she had become, 00:33:44 “she stopped watching these programs. 00:33:47 “She wrote: ‘If all readers 00:33:49 “‘will take your article on TV serials to heart, 00:33:53 “‘they will feel a real sense of freedom, 00:33:56 since our own everyday problems are enough to cope with.’” 00:34:00 So, you see, our sister had the proper view of discipline, 00:34:03 and she was able to keep close to Jehovah. 00:34:08 Now, another one, after expressing appreciation, wrote: 00:34:11 “I realized that I was ‘addicted’ to soap operas, 00:34:15 “and that I had to do something about it. 00:34:17 “I wondered, too, if my relationship with Jehovah could be affected. 00:34:22 “How could I have ‘them’ as friends 00:34:24 “and also be a friend to Jehovah? 00:34:27 “I had to quit all at once 00:34:29 —it was the only way, and how hard it was!” she admits. 00:34:33 So, what did she have to do to break free? 00:34:35 She had to unplug her TV. 00:34:37 She’d go outdoors and work in the garden, call somebody 00:34:41 —anything to stay busy so that she wouldn’t go back 00:34:45 to watching those soap operas. 00:34:48 She took time for personal Bible study 00:34:50 —that’ll keep you close to Jehovah— 00:34:52 preparing for her meetings, and other spiritual things. 00:34:55 And then she confesses: “How much better I felt! 00:34:59 “It has been over two years now [from this last writing] 00:35:03 “since I have seen those so-called friends. 00:35:06 “I must admit that at times I still wonder 00:35:09 “what is going on with them, but I fight it. . . . 00:35:13 Perhaps many others who have not yet broken free will now.” 00:35:17 She says: ‘Thank you, Jehovah and you brothers, 00:35:21 for exposing this “good-for-nothing thing.”’ 00:35:25 Then, finally, this third one says: 00:35:28 “I cried when I read the articles, 00:35:31 “for I discovered that my heart was no longer complete toward Jehovah. 00:35:35 “I promised my God 00:35:37 “that I would no longer be a slave to these serials 00:35:40 “and asked him to help me to get out of my home 00:35:43 “on the day of the program. . . . 00:35:46 “Two days later, I was invited to attend a Bible study 00:35:49 “on the very day and time of ‘my’ serial. 00:35:52 “I happily accepted. . . . 00:35:54 “[and notice] I now feel closer to Jehovah, 00:35:58 “and my relationship with him is more intimate. 00:36:02 How good Jehovah is to discipline us through his Word!” 00:36:06 Yes, she had the proper view of discipline. 00:36:10 Now, finally, let’s look in Hebrews chapter 12, 00:36:16 and we appreciate these sincere comments 00:36:18 and the counsel there certainly applies. 00:36:22 Any kind of entertainment 00:36:24 that has that corrupting influence 00:36:27 would be avoided by a true Christian. 00:36:30 So here at Hebrews chapter 12, 00:36:33 notice verse 11: 00:36:36 “True, no discipline seems for the present to be joyous, 00:36:40 “but it is painful; 00:36:42 “yet afterward, it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness 00:36:46 to those who have been trained by it.” 00:36:48 So discipline is painful, 00:36:51 but “the peaceable fruit of righteousness” 00:36:53 makes it worth it to have a proper view of the discipline 00:36:57 and to accept it humbly 00:37:00 so that we can remain close to our precious Father, Jehovah. 00:37:06 Discipline helps us reshape our thinking and actions, 00:37:09 drawing us closer to our Grand Creator. 00:37:13 It may come from God’s Word, 00:37:15 publications produced by “the faithful and discreet slave,” 00:37:18 a parent, or mature fellow Christians. 00:37:23 No matter how we receive discipline, 00:37:25 always remember what Proverbs 3:12 says: 00:37:29 “Those whom Jehovah loves he reproves, 00:37:32 just as a father does a son in whom he delights.” 00:37:37 But what if the world’s thinking has molded you, 00:37:40 not by choice, but by circumstance? 00:37:44 You’ll appreciate the story of sister Guzel Gainanshina, 00:37:48 who was not raised as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. 00:37:51 In her youth, Guzel searched for fulfillment 00:37:54 through competitive sports. 00:37:56 Even though she achieved some level of success, 00:37:59 what helped her to find a true purpose in life? 00:38:06 I lived in the north, with the glorious dark, starlit sky 00:38:10 and the beauty of fir trees. 00:38:12 I thought it was the most wonderful place in the world. 00:38:14 My mom was always drawing my attention to the beauty of creation. 00:38:18 And she always told me, 00:38:20 “My daughter, it’s so important to live your life in the right way.” 00:38:23 And the questions that stayed with me were: 00:38:25 ‘So why are we alive? 00:38:28 Why is there so much suffering, injustice, pain?’ 00:38:32 When I was 18, I took up a form of karate 00:38:35 known as Kyokushinkai. 00:38:39 Just imagine a large number of people in kimonos, standing in rows 00:38:42 bravely and without a shadow of fear, 00:38:44 working on improving their blows and striving to progress. 00:38:47 I thought: ‘This is it! This is what I’ve been looking for!’ 00:38:51 I set the goal of reaching the next world championships, 00:38:53 winning a high place, 00:38:55 and immortalizing myself so that my name would remain 00:38:58 and generations would remember me. 00:39:05 Among those sportsmen, although I saw a lot of nice words and slogans, 00:39:08 not everything was as pure as I’d hoped for. 00:39:13 And then on one occasion, I was sitting down 00:39:17 and feelings of emptiness 00:39:19 just wouldn’t leave me alone. 00:39:21 And for the first time in my life, 00:39:24 I talked to God. 00:39:26 And then I prayed: 00:39:28 “I don’t understand you. 00:39:30 “Why is there so much beauty in the world 00:39:34 “and yet so much suffering? 00:39:38 “Is that really what you want 00:39:40 —for us to live like this?” 00:39:41 I prayed, I guess, for about four hours. 00:39:45 You know, the strongest feeling of emptiness and loneliness 00:39:49 is that of a creation 00:39:51 without its Creator. 00:39:53 And I was so lonely at that time. 00:39:58 And a while afterwards, there was a knock at my door. 00:40:02 It was Jehovah’s Witnesses. 00:40:08 I started studying the Bible. 00:40:09 It was so wonderful! 00:40:13 On one occasion, the sister who studied with me 00:40:16 looked up at me, and when she looked at those bruises 00:40:19 and those beaten-up knuckles, 00:40:22 she took a deep breath and shook her head. 00:40:25 I said, “Is there something wrong?” 00:40:28 She said, “You know, I’m in great pain.” 00:40:31 I said, “Why are you in pain?” 00:40:34 She said: “Well, 00:40:35 “I’m looking at your hands, your elbows, your battered legs, all of that. 00:40:39 Doesn’t it hurt?” 00:40:42 I said, “Well, yes.” 00:40:45 And she said, “You know, it hurts me to see you in pain.” 00:40:50 And I started to understand that Jehovah is the true God 00:40:53 and that this really was the truth. 00:40:57 It was difficult. 00:40:58 The pressure from relatives and friends was very strong. 00:41:02 But the most difficult thing 00:41:04 that I had to battle with was my strong attachment to karate. 00:41:09 Just a year remained until the world championships. 00:41:11 I had prepared for them. 00:41:13 I had been working toward that goal for five years. 00:41:17 Glory can seem really sweet 00:41:20 when you are the victor, when your opponents fall to the ground. 00:41:29 So I flew to the world championships. 00:41:31 When I made it to the last four winners 00:41:34 and I had to fight for third place, 00:41:37 I wanted to ask my trainer to let me stop. Why? 00:41:39 Because I couldn’t feel a single place on my body 00:41:43 —everything was beaten up. 00:41:45 But he said: 00:41:46 “You know, we love you so much. Go for it!” 00:41:50 And at that moment, it felt as though I was weighing love 00:41:54 —the world’s love 00:41:55 and the love of Jehovah’s organization. 00:41:58 It seemed to me that the world was saying: 00:42:00 “We love you. Now just go and die!” 00:42:04 But the love in the organization says, 00:42:06 “It hurts me to see you in pain.” 00:42:09 I realized that the world can’t give you what it doesn’t have. 00:42:13 It doesn’t know how to love. 00:42:15 But, nevertheless, I went to the fight 00:42:17 and became the bronze medalist. 00:42:22 And when I stood on the podium of glory, 00:42:25 I understood that glory among people who don’t love you 00:42:29 weighs no more than emptiness. 00:42:33 If a person dedicates his life 00:42:35 to glorifying himself, he will always meet 00:42:38 with disappointment and emptiness. 00:42:40 So I made the firm decision to escape from karate. 00:42:45 I started preaching, and I was baptized in 2005 00:42:47 at the summer convention in Kurgan. 00:42:52 Later, I started full-time service. 00:42:54 I learned the Tatar language so that I could serve in that territory. 00:43:00 Now, when in the evenings 00:43:02 I look up at the starry sky, I feel not hopelessness, 00:43:06 but tremendous joy 00:43:09 because I know who is behind it all: 00:43:12 our loving Creator, Jehovah God. 00:43:22 Guzel had been “molded by this system of things,” 00:43:25 but she was “transformed by making [her] mind over.” 00:43:29 The literal cuts and bruises Guzel suffered healed with time, 00:43:33 but she found true comfort from the One described at Psalm 147:3, 00:43:38 who “heals the brokenhearted” 00:43:41 and who “binds up” the emotional “wounds” 00:43:43 inflicted by this system of things. 00:43:47 Her example shows that no matter our situation or background, 00:43:50 the beautiful truths of God’s Word can change us. 00:43:56 It may feel like a leap of faith 00:43:58 to leave behind secular pursuits to reach spiritual goals. 00:44:03 Some have made this leap after investing years 00:44:06 of training, education, and financial resources 00:44:10 toward a career in the world. 00:44:14 If that’s true for you, 00:44:16 rest assured that you are not alone. 00:44:19 Our next segment will introduce you to young ones 00:44:23 who resisted the pressure to conform 00:44:25 to the world’s view of success. 00:44:31 Right now I am serving in the Central America branch, 00:44:34 and I have the opportunity to work with extraordinary brothers and sisters 00:44:38 —both here and in other parts of the world. 00:44:41 My name is Rogelio. 00:44:43 I’m part of the Art Department, 00:44:44 and I’m a digital illustrator. 00:44:48 Music really means the world to me. 00:44:50 I am Joyce; I’m a pioneer, 00:44:53 and I sing alto in the Bethel chorus. 00:44:59 My name is Lou-Len, 00:45:01 and I serve as a regular pioneer in a congregation where there’s a need. 00:45:04 I love doing that. 00:45:06 My life is wonderful. 00:45:09 Seeing people’s faces light up when you teach them God’s name 00:45:12 or when you tell them of Jehovah’s promises for us 00:45:16 fills me with great joy. 00:45:19 My name is Josué Martell. 00:45:20 I serve as a regular pioneer 00:45:22 and as an elder in the congregation. 00:45:26 Ever since I was little, 00:45:28 I’ve always loved playing soccer, and that was my biggest dream. 00:45:31 My goal was to become a professional soccer player. 00:45:35 The truth is, setting goals was always difficult for me 00:45:38 because I always had two passions, 00:45:41 ‘Am I a servant of Jehovah or an artist?’ 00:45:45 My goal was to become the best gymnast in the world. 00:45:48 At that moment, 00:45:50 gymnastics were number one in my life. 00:45:54 I played at big festivals. 00:45:57 Standing ovations 00:46:00 —that was amazing. 00:46:03 I was surrounded by non-Witnesses 00:46:06 who were using drugs, smoking, and swearing. 00:46:09 My trainer had mapped out a complete training program 00:46:13 with the Olympics as a goal. 00:46:17 This made me feel trapped. 00:46:19 I started thinking, ‘What do I want to do with my life?’ 00:46:22 More importantly, ‘What does Jehovah want?’ 00:46:26 When I was studying design, I was already a regular pioneer. 00:46:29 It wasn’t easy for me to come to the understanding 00:46:31 that the one who really matters is Jehovah. 00:46:34 When I was 16 years old, 00:46:37 different teams started offering me high-paying contracts. 00:46:41 I felt a lot of pressure, and it was a temptation 00:46:44 because they would constantly call me and come to my house. 00:46:47 I noticed that when the players played the sport, 00:46:51 they were happy, but afterwards they weren’t. 00:46:55 My mother was in the full-time service, and I saw her happiness. 00:47:00 That motivated me because I too wanted 00:47:03 to experience that lasting happiness. 00:47:05 I felt a little guilty when I thought of how much of myself 00:47:08 I was giving to design and art and all of that. 00:47:11 So that’s when I made my decision. 00:47:13 I decided to leave university and focus on my service. 00:47:18 I realized that for a long time I hadn’t been growing spiritually. 00:47:21 I prayed intensely to Jehovah. 00:47:26 I asked: “Do I know you? 00:47:28 Do I live the way you would want?” 00:47:33 And after that, 00:47:35 I stopped performing with non-Witnesses. 00:47:43 I prayed to Jehovah. 00:47:45 And then, at the convention, 00:47:47 we received the DVD Young People Ask —What Will I Do With My Life? 00:47:51 That really was Jehovah’s answer 00:47:53 to my prayer. 00:47:57 In the Bible it says 00:47:59 that “the truth will set you free.” 00:48:01 That freedom is something I never used to feel. 00:48:05 I love working together with other sisters in the ministry 00:48:08 and seeing how they share my enthusiasm for making return visits 00:48:12 and conducting Bible studies. 00:48:13 It’s just wonderful to see! 00:48:17 To wake up each day knowing 00:48:19 that I am going to do something new for Jehovah is extraordinary. 00:48:23 It’s an unbelievable blessing; it’s like living a dream. 00:48:26 I feel that I belong to a global organization 00:48:29 and we are all going in the same direction. 00:48:32 It’s something really wonderful for me. 00:48:35 To sing for Jehovah is the most beautiful privilege 00:48:38 I could ever imagine. 00:48:40 One of the biggest blessings 00:48:43 is that I have a real friendship with Jehovah 00:48:46 and friendships with my brothers and sisters —young or old. 00:48:49 It doesn’t matter. 00:48:52 I am really happy that when Jehovah looks at me, 00:48:55 I feel his approval. 00:48:57 That makes me happy. 00:49:00 My trust in Jehovah has grown stronger. 00:49:03 The way I communicate with him continues to improve. 00:49:06 And I also love my assignment 00:49:09 of being a regular pioneer, an elder, and being able to support 00:49:12 the brothers and sisters. 00:49:14 To continue to be among Jehovah’s people, 00:49:16 that’s the joy I was looking for 00:49:18 —and I found it! 00:49:22 The world tries to pass off the thrill of recognition or fame as fulfillment, 00:49:27 but do not be deceived. 00:49:29 These fine examples show that doing your best for Jehovah 00:49:33 leads to real contentment. 00:49:36 His smile of approval is worth 00:49:38 more than any accolade this system of things could ever bestow. 00:49:43 Satan works tirelessly 00:49:46 to wear us down physically and emotionally. 00:49:49 How can we have the courage 00:49:51 to stand up to challenges and pressures to give up? 00:49:55 The loving support true Christians give to one another 00:49:59 is illustrated in this month’s music video, 00:50:02 entitled Do Not Be Afraid. 00:50:30 It’s hard to see clear when challenges appear. 00:50:42 We get lost inside the emotions we feel. 00:50:55 When adversity strikes us down, 00:51:00 No need to stay on the ground. 00:51:05 Look up; Reach out. 00:51:10 Do not be afraid, for He is with us, 00:51:17 Saving us with His right hand of righteousness. 00:51:22 So when it gets hard sometimes, 00:51:28 We need to remember we’re not alone. 00:51:37 No, we’re never alone. 00:51:41 Just pray; Do not be afraid. 00:51:55 He gives us friends who stick by our side. 00:52:06 Their prayers of faith and love are always right on time. 00:52:19 And each day when we read His Word, 00:52:25 It gives us the strength to endure. 00:52:30 When we’re down, We’ll reach out. 00:52:36 Do not be afraid, for He is with us, 00:52:42 Saving us with His right hand of righteousness. 00:52:47 So when it gets hard sometimes, 00:52:54 We need to remember we’re not alone. 00:53:02 No, we’re never alone. Just pray. 00:53:09 So when those dark clouds come rolling in, 00:53:15 Hold your head high. It’ll be all right. 00:53:55 Do not be afraid, for He is with us, 00:54:01 Saving us with His right hand of righteousness. 00:54:07 So when it gets hard sometimes, 00:54:12 We need to remember we’re not alone. 00:54:21 No, we’re never alone. 00:54:25 Just pray; Do not be afraid. 00:54:52 The heartfelt appeal of that song 00:54:55 brings to mind the words of Isaiah 41:10, 00:54:58 where we’re encouraged: 00:55:00 “Do not be afraid, for I am with you. 00:55:03 “Do not be anxious, for I am your God. 00:55:07 “I will fortify you, yes, I will help you, 00:55:10 I will really hold on to you with my right hand of righteousness.” 00:55:16 Be assured that you will receive help 00:55:18 from our heavenly Father, Jehovah, 00:55:20 and from fellow believers 00:55:22 to resist being molded by this system. 00:55:26 To conclude, we bring you greetings 00:55:29 from Maraã, in the state of Amazonas 00:55:32 in northern Brazil. 00:55:34 Nestled in the Amazon rain forest along the Japurá River, 00:55:38 there are no roads leading to this city; 00:55:41 it can only be reached by river. 00:55:44 For most travelers, reaching the city is a three-day journey, 00:55:48 which involves sleeping in hammocks along the way. 00:55:52 Around 18,000 people inhabit the area, 00:55:56 but because of its remote location, 00:55:58 many people have never had the opportunity to hear the good news. 00:56:03 With that in mind, along with several other cities, 00:56:08 Maraã was included in the Amazonas national preaching campaign. 00:56:12 The goal of this special campaign was to reach the thousands of people 00:56:16 who live in some of Amazon’s most isolated areas. 00:56:20 As a result, many willing brothers and sisters 00:56:23 moved here to serve where the need is greater. 00:56:27 Since the city is completely surrounded by rivers, 00:56:31 publishers reach interested ones by boat. 00:56:35 Special pioneers have played a large part in cultivating interest 00:56:39 by using this method of preaching. 00:56:42 One of the 23 congregations that was formed 00:56:46 as a result of the special campaign 00:56:48 is located here. 00:56:51 Today, more than 20 publishers in the congregation 00:56:54 are conducting at least 100 Bible studies. 00:56:59 And we’re happy to report that in 2017 00:57:03 the first local family was baptized. 00:57:06 Our dear brothers and sisters are working hard to help 00:57:10 those in the Amazon region to learn about Jehovah, 00:57:13 and they send their warm love 00:57:15 and greetings to all of us 00:57:17 around the globe. 00:57:20 Thank you for joining us this month. 00:57:22 As always, this is JW Broadcasting 00:57:25 from the world headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
00:00:01 Welcome to JW Broadcasting. 00:00:04 What do we have for you on this month’s program? 00:00:07 We’ll hear the story of Cecil Goff, 00:00:10 an elder and regular pioneer with over 80 years in Jehovah’s service. 00:00:15 What valuable lessons from his experience 00:00:18 can you apply to your life and ministry? 00:00:22 Whether we are young or old, 00:00:23 how can we make good decisions when choosing entertainment? 00:00:27 In this dramatization, we’ll see how a young brother named Danny 00:00:32 learns the value of sowing 00:00:34 what is wholesome in his mind. 00:00:37 Has a challenge in your life ever been so severe 00:00:40 that you felt overwhelmed? 00:00:42 When anxiety stirs within us, 00:00:45 this new music video 00:00:47 can reassure us of Jehovah’s loving support. 00:00:52 This is JW Broadcasting for September 2018. 00:01:17 We start this month with the story of Brother Cecil Goff. 00:01:21 Cecil is 99 years old 00:01:23 and has served Jehovah for over 80 years. 00:01:27 He’s spent many of those years in full-time service. 00:01:31 He had the privilege to serve at Brooklyn Bethel, 00:01:33 as a circuit overseer, as a Gilead-trained missionary, 00:01:37 and as a branch overseer in Cuba. 00:01:40 As you watch his interview, 00:01:42 try to determine why he’s convinced 00:01:45 that his life in Jehovah’s service was more rewarding 00:01:48 than anything the world had to offer. 00:01:51 My name is Cecil Joseph Goff. 00:01:55 I began to lose eyesight in the ’70’s. 00:01:58 I can’t see to read or anything. 00:02:00 I see only peripheral vision. 00:02:04 I was playing in a country band at a very young age. 00:02:10 Well, I played the tenor banjo, tenor guitar, and I played the mandolin. 00:02:15 It was my life. 00:02:17 And yet, when I began reading and studying, 00:02:20 really, I wanted to stick with that, 00:02:22 and I left the band. 00:02:25 I started pioneering, 00:02:27 and then they assigned me to Texarkana, Texas. 00:02:31 Another brother and I were stopped 00:02:35 as we were holding the phonograph up, 00:02:37 and I was playing it for a lady at the door. 00:02:40 Why, here about 15 or 20 men surrounded me. 00:02:44 I asked him, “How did you enjoy it?” 00:02:46 And he said: “That’s not the question. 00:02:48 My question is, Do you salute the flag?” 00:02:50 And I said, “Let me explain it.” 00:02:51 He said: “I don’t want an explanation. 00:02:53 I just want to know yes or no; do you or do you not?” 00:02:57 I said, “I do not.” 00:02:59 He threw me up in the air. 00:03:01 I fell on my back in the street there, 00:03:03 and then about three of them got on top of me. 00:03:06 He said: “You’re going to salute the flag or eat it. 00:03:08 Bring me that flag over there.” 00:03:10 I was praying to Jehovah to remember me in the resurrection. 00:03:13 About that time, several women ran out of the houses on both sides of us: 00:03:18 “Leave those men alone. They didn’t bother you. 00:03:21 Leave them alone. Let them go.” 00:03:23 So they got off of me, and they left us like a bunch of beaten kittens. 00:03:27 I was asked to go to Brooklyn Bethel and become a member of the Bethel home. 00:03:32 Brother Knorr asked me, “Do you know how to use the typewriter?” 00:03:35 I said, “Yes, I can type.” 00:03:37 He said: “Well, I’m going to put you on a machine. 00:03:40 “It’s called a Linotype. 00:03:42 It has three keyboards.” 00:03:44 And he said: “And it will take you about two years to learn it. 00:03:46 Are you willing to accept it?” 00:03:48 And I said, “Yes, I will.” 00:03:50 So I was put on the Linotype. 00:03:53 I got married in the fall of 1945 and left Bethel. 00:03:57 Well, we were invited in 1949 00:04:01 to go into the circuit work. 00:04:03 We were in the 21st class of Gilead. 00:04:05 We enjoyed that course very much. 00:04:07 We received an assignment for Cuba, 00:04:09 and I was assigned as branch overseer. 00:04:12 And in ’63, 00:04:16 the police car came 00:04:19 up to the branch at about ten o’clock at night. 00:04:21 I was told to take my papers, 00:04:23 and we went over to the police station, and so forth. 00:04:26 And sure enough, soon thereafter, here comes an official. 00:04:30 He said, “You have to leave Cuba 00:04:32 because you’re not in favor of the Cuban government.” 00:04:36 A person asked a policeman standing close by, he said, 00:04:41 “Who are these people that are being sent out of the country?” 00:04:44 And they said: “Over there,” 00:04:47 talking about me, 00:04:48 “see that gangster man over there? 00:04:50 He’s the head of it.” 00:04:52 So then we got on the plane and headed back. 00:04:55 I got in contact with Brooklyn Bethel, 00:04:58 talked to Brother Knorr, and he said, 00:05:00 “As soon as you can, in the next day or two, come back to Bethel.” 00:05:03 And Brother Knorr said, “You got back just in time 00:05:06 “to get back on the Linotype machine 00:05:08 to set up a new book we have in Spanish.” 00:05:11 So I did that and got on the Linotype. 00:05:15 And then Brother Knorr told me, he said, 00:05:18 “In 1964, we’re going to have a ten-month course in Gilead 00:05:21 for all branch people who have branch experience.” 00:05:26 Oh, it was very, very good. 00:05:28 We studied a lot, not only the Bible 00:05:30 (we studied a lot on the Bible, discourse and everything) 00:05:33 but we studied a lot of branch material too. 00:05:38 Above everything else, our love for Jehovah should continue to grow. 00:05:43 He knows our thoughts, our mind, our heart. 00:05:46 He goes far beyond what man can do. 00:05:48 And whatever his decision is, 00:05:50 I’ve learned to understand that it’s the best decision. 00:05:54 I have learned that if we obey what the organization says 00:05:59 and what the Bible says, then we’re doing Jehovah’s will; 00:06:02 and that’s my concern 00:06:03 —no regrets whatsoever, none. 00:06:08 Maybe I could’ve done more at times, 00:06:10 but I’m certainly glad that I have taken advantage of it 00:06:13 as much as I have up until now. 00:06:15 And it’s been a happy life. 00:06:17 And I have seen Jehovah’s hand 00:06:20 time and again. 00:06:24 Brother Goff has led a full, happy life in theocratic service. 00:06:29 But do you wonder, 00:06:31 ‘How was he able to persevere for so many years 00:06:34 and through so many different assignments?’ 00:06:37 Cecil learned the value 00:06:39 of letting Jehovah and his organization 00:06:41 shape his thinking. 00:06:44 But he had to make a choice as a young man, 00:06:46 a choice all of Jehovah’s servants have to make. 00:06:50 And that’s the basis for our discussion this month. 00:06:54 The theme is 00:06:56 “Stop Being Molded by This System of Things.” 00:06:59 In describing godly wisdom, 00:07:01 the ancient man Job 00:07:03 recognized it as priceless. 00:07:06 At Job 28:17, he said: 00:07:08 “Gold and glass cannot be compared to it.” 00:07:12 Glass —it has been around for centuries, 00:07:17 even back in Job’s day. 00:07:19 However, what revolutionized glass production 00:07:22 was the invention of glassblowing. 00:07:25 By blowing through a hollow tube, 00:07:27 a glassblower can quickly mold superheated molten glass 00:07:32 into a specific shape. 00:07:35 Satan’s system has developed the art 00:07:38 of shaping the minds of people 00:07:41 into fragile glass vessels with little useful purpose. 00:07:45 In fact, Romans 9:22 refers to such ones 00:07:49 as “vessels of wrath made fit for destruction.” 00:07:55 Find with me Romans 12:2. 00:07:59 What is responsible for molding and shaping 00:08:03 the inclinations of the people of the world? 00:08:06 Romans 12:2: 00:08:08 “And stop being molded by this system of things, 00:08:12 “but be transformed by making your mind over, 00:08:16 “so that you may prove to yourselves 00:08:18 the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” 00:08:23 To counteract “being molded,” the verse said: 00:08:26 “But be transformed by making your mind over.” 00:08:30 So the molding of this system is related to our thinking 00:08:34 —the shaping of our minds. 00:08:37 Well, what evil air is blown down the hollow tube? 00:08:42 It’s identified quite clearly for us at Ephesians 2:2, 3. 00:08:49 Concerning a Christian’s previous unclean thinking and behavior, 00:08:53 verse 2 says: 00:08:54 “In which you at one time walked 00:08:57 “according to the system of things of this world, 00:09:00 “according to the ruler of the authority of the air, 00:09:05 the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience.” 00:09:10 The verse makes clear that this “system of things” has a ruler. 00:09:15 Satan is called “the ruler of the authority of the air.” 00:09:19 The verse indicates that “the air” is “the spirit” of the world. 00:09:24 Well, with such a mind-set, 00:09:26 what kind of behavior does the thinking of the world lead to? 00:09:30 Verse 3: 00:09:32 “Yes, among them we all at one time conducted ourselves 00:09:36 “in harmony with the desires of our flesh, 00:09:40 “carrying out the will of the flesh and of our thoughts, 00:09:45 and we were naturally children of wrath just as the rest.” 00:09:49 For this reason, they become 00:09:52 “vessels of wrath made fit for destruction.” 00:09:56 Glassblowers often work in groups known as “shops.” 00:10:00 An apprentice dips a hollow blowpipe into the liquid glass. 00:10:05 By twirling it, he gathers a blob of molten glass. 00:10:09 He shapes the blob by rolling it 00:10:12 on a smooth surface called a marver. 00:10:15 He then passes the tube to the gaffer, or shop master. 00:10:19 He blows air into the tube and fashions the glass into a globe. 00:10:24 If a wine glass is being made, 00:10:26 the tube is then passed to the stem-maker 00:10:29 and another gather of glass is attached. 00:10:32 It is then shaped by means of long-pointed tongs 00:10:35 to form the stem. 00:10:37 Then, another gather of hot glass is added to the stem. 00:10:42 The craftsman rolls the tube on the arm of his chair. 00:10:45 He forms the base of the glass. 00:10:49 We will briefly consider four ways 00:10:52 that this system subtly tries to shape 00:10:55 our mind into Satan’s designs. 00:10:58 The first is harmful peer pressure. 00:11:02 Now, often this is just an apprentice in Satan’s shop 00:11:06 —maybe fellow students in school, fellow workers on the job. 00:11:10 Don’t you think Satan will try to capitalize 00:11:13 on these circumstantial relationships? 00:11:16 Absolutely! 00:11:18 Peer pressure —it can have an influence on our mind. 00:11:23 They may make fun of our wholesome morals, 00:11:26 our clean speech, our dignified dress. 00:11:29 That is pressure. 00:11:31 Possibly, they invite us to do things that we know will lead to no good. 00:11:36 They are twirling us 00:11:38 with their thinking, with their taunts, 00:11:40 or maybe with their flattery and temptation. 00:11:43 They are rolling things over and over in our mind. 00:11:49 Turn to 2 Peter 2:18, 19. 00:11:54 And as you read this, 00:11:56 can you pick out a word that is equivalent to peer pressure? 00:12:01 Let’s read 00:12:02 2 Peter 2:18, 19: 00:12:05 “They make high-sounding statements that are empty [like air]. 00:12:10 “By appealing to the desires of the flesh and with acts of brazen conduct, 00:12:14 “they entice [that’s peer pressure] people 00:12:19 “who have just escaped from those who live in error. 00:12:22 “While they are promising them freedom, 00:12:25 “they themselves are slaves of corruption; 00:12:28 “for if anyone is overcome by someone, 00:12:31 he is his slave.” 00:12:35 The verse says that if we are overcome by peer pressure—enticed— 00:12:38 we actually become a “slave” of that person. 00:12:41 That is scary! 00:12:43 It’s dangerous! 00:12:45 Peer pressure is deceptively strong. 00:12:49 Well, what is another way that the spirit of this system 00:12:51 can shape our thinking? 00:12:53 You recall that the apprentice passed the glassblowing tube 00:12:57 to the gaffer who blew air into the glass, giving it shape. 00:13:02 What does Satan and this system next use to mold our thinking? 00:13:08 Enticing advertisements. 00:13:11 Like the air of a glassblower, 00:13:13 advertisements often have little substance. 00:13:17 For example, that product we decided to buy 00:13:21 when we last went shopping. 00:13:23 Maybe it was a brand of clothing 00:13:25 or a brand of dry cereal we bought for breakfast. 00:13:28 Is that always purely a personal, rational decision on our part? 00:13:33 Or did advertising 00:13:36 subtly but powerfully affect our choice? 00:13:41 Now, it’s not that all advertising is bad or misleading. 00:13:45 But the more we allow ourselves to be influenced by it, 00:13:48 the more we are in danger of being led into a materialistic way of life. 00:13:54 For example, instead of dry cereal, 00:13:57 are we now influenced to buy that flashy-looking sports car? 00:14:02 Turn to 1 John 2:15-17. 00:14:08 This system inflates our thinking by means of “things.” 00:14:12 First John 2:15, 16: 00:14:15 “Do not love either the world or the things in the world. 00:14:19 “If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him; 00:14:23 “because everything in the world 00:14:26 “—the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes 00:14:30 “and the showy display of one’s means of life— 00:14:33 “does not originate with the Father, 00:14:35 but originates with the world.” 00:14:38 Why do we need to resist catering 00:14:41 to advertisements that feed the spirit of the world? 00:14:44 Verse 17: 00:14:46 “Furthermore, the world is passing away 00:14:50 “and so is its desire, 00:14:53 but the one who does the will of God remains forever.” 00:14:58 Remember Eve! 00:15:00 Satan advertised the forbidden fruit. 00:15:04 The scripture says it was “desirable to the eyes, 00:15:07 . . . the tree was pleasing to look at.” 00:15:10 She succumbed to the advertisement 00:15:13 with disastrous results. 00:15:16 Similarly, Satan used advertisements to try to reshape Jesus’ focus. 00:15:21 Matthew chapter 4 says that Satan 00:15:23 “showed him all the kingdoms of the world,” 00:15:27 offering them in exchange for one act of worship. 00:15:33 Jesus simply turned him off. 00:15:39 Don’t be overly influenced by advertisements. 00:15:43 What’s the next aspect of this system that can distort our minds? 00:15:48 Bad associations. 00:15:51 It is as if the gaffer has now passed the glassblowing tube 00:15:54 to the stem-maker. 00:15:56 He takes another gather of molten glass 00:15:59 and attaches it to our globe. 00:16:02 Then he stretches that associated blob 00:16:05 into the form of a stem. 00:16:08 Well, we already talked about peer pressure, 00:16:11 but that often comes from those who are not necessarily 00:16:14 our close associates. 00:16:16 What we’re discussing now is our decisions 00:16:20 about whom we spend a lot of time with. 00:16:23 People who don’t love Jehovah can stretch and misshape our minds, 00:16:28 providing a stem or a handle for the world to hold us by. 00:16:34 Turn to 1 Corinthians 15:33. 00:16:38 Sometimes we hear the phrase that some of the kids in school 00:16:43 are nicer than some of the kids in the congregation. 00:16:47 But usually, nicer actually means more fun 00:16:51 rather than more wholesome. 00:16:54 But let’s look at 1 Corinthians 15:33 in its context. 00:16:59 What did the apostle Paul mean 00:17:01 when he said to the Corinthians “bad associations”? 00:17:06 First Corinthians 15:33: 00:17:09 “Do not be misled. 00:17:11 Bad associations spoil useful habits.” 00:17:16 But what made these ones bad association? 00:17:19 Let’s see it in context. 00:17:21 Look at 1 Corinthians 15:12: 00:17:25 “Now if it is being preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, 00:17:29 how is it that some among you say there is no resurrection of the dead?” 00:17:35 Well, what was the initial problem with these associates? 00:17:39 They did not believe the same way. 00:17:42 Why would that make them bad associations? 00:17:45 Because what an associate believes 00:17:48 will eventually affect our thinking, 00:17:51 and our thinking affects our behavior. 00:17:55 Notice how Paul describes this. 00:17:57 Look at 1 Corinthians 15:32. 00:18:01 What good is it to endure the rigors of the Christian race for life 00:18:06 if there is no resurrection, no future, no hope? 00:18:09 Verse 32: 00:18:11 “If like other men, I have fought with wild beasts at Ephesus, 00:18:15 “of what good is it to me? 00:18:17 “If the dead are not to be raised up, 00:18:19 ‘let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we are to die.’” 00:18:24 May all of us avoid bad association 00:18:27 whether in person, on TV, or on the Internet. 00:18:33 What’s a fourth means by which Satan 00:18:35 attempts to fashion us, reshaping our thinking? 00:18:39 Higher education. 00:18:42 Most of us remember the January 2015 JW Broadcasting program 00:18:47 hosted by Brother Morris of the Governing Body. 00:18:51 He focused on the value of divine education. 00:18:55 But he also reaffirmed 00:18:57 the dangers of pursuing higher secular education. 00:19:01 Its whole purpose is for learning —influencing one’s thinking. 00:19:06 And while a person’s intention might be just to create 00:19:09 a stable base for his secular future, 00:19:13 his decision could expose him 00:19:15 to unscriptural ideas and practices. 00:19:20 Back to the glass shop. 00:19:22 Recall that another gather of hot glass 00:19:25 is added to the end of the stem. 00:19:27 The craftsman then rolls the tube backward and forward. 00:19:31 He forms the base for the glass. 00:19:35 Well, we will say no more about this topic 00:19:38 other than what Brother Morris has already shared. 00:19:41 You might want to go back and review that broadcast. 00:19:45 However, we would like to read 1 Timothy 6:20, 21: 00:19:50 “Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you 00:19:55 “[that’s divine education], 00:19:57 “turning away from the empty speeches that violate what is holy 00:20:01 “and from the contradictions 00:20:03 “of the falsely called ‘knowledge.’ 00:20:06 “By making a show of such knowledge, 00:20:09 some have deviated from the faith.” 00:20:13 Unfortunately, in an effort to make 00:20:16 a stable base for one’s financial future, 00:20:19 many “have deviated from the faith.” 00:20:24 In the visuals of a glassblowing shop, 00:20:26 we observed the skill of the workers involved. 00:20:30 And that shop obviously produces 00:20:32 beautiful, useful glass vessels. 00:20:36 Satan’s glass shop is also skilled at shaping one’s thinking. 00:20:41 But what does it produce? 00:20:44 Instead of a person becoming a valuable vessel that Jehovah can use, 00:20:48 Satan is actually mass-producing 00:20:52 worthless vessels that Jehovah cannot use. 00:20:56 What could you do with this misshaped creation? 00:21:00 Nothing —it is useless. 00:21:03 At the outset, Romans 9:22 was quoted. 00:21:07 Those who conform to Satan’s system are referred to 00:21:10 as “vessels of wrath made fit for destruction.” 00:21:18 Jehovah has paid a high price for us. 00:21:21 Gold and glass cannot be compared to it. 00:21:24 May we make over our minds by applying godly wisdom. 00:21:28 Glorify Jehovah as a vessel that he can use. 00:21:32 First Corinthians 6:20 concludes this discussion nicely, saying: 00:21:37 “For you were bought with a price. 00:21:40 By all means, glorify God in your body.” 00:21:45 How else may the world try to mold us? 00:21:48 Another way is through the entertainment it produces. 00:21:52 How can we choose entertainment that will enhance 00:21:56 and not taint our sacrifice to Jehovah? 00:21:59 In the following dramatization, 00:22:02 notice how a fellow Christian 00:22:04 helps a young brother to make better choices. 00:22:32 I promised Akil I’d go out in service with him after school. 00:22:35 Hey, we’re just waiting in the car. 00:22:41 And I kept my word, 00:22:49 but my head just wasn’t in it. 00:22:57 Akil could tell, so he tried to see if everything was OK. 00:23:04 Honestly, at the time, 00:23:06 I would have rather been playing video games, 00:23:11 but I couldn’t tell him that. 00:23:15 I mean, he’s a pioneer, a ministerial servant. 00:23:20 He wouldn’t understand. 00:23:43 Later that week, 00:23:45 Akil invited me to go mountain biking with some friends. 00:23:49 It was actually really fun. 00:23:55 . . . and your croissant. 00:23:56 Great, thanks. 00:23:57 Please let me know if there’s anything else, OK? 00:23:59 All right. Thanks. 00:24:01 So, Danny, you’re obviously good at biking. 00:24:03 What else do you like to do for fun? 00:24:05 OK, so I have this game and it’s called . . . 00:24:07 Soon I was showing him my video games. 00:24:15 And surprisingly, he liked video games too. 00:24:20 But he said he chose to be selective. 00:24:26 He began to describe the gladiators in ancient Rome. 00:24:37 People would come from all over 00:24:39 to watch them fight to the death. 00:24:42 And while the spectators weren’t in any physical danger, 00:24:47 the real danger came over time. 00:24:58 Repeatedly watching the bloodshed and the killing, 00:25:01 it was dulling their senses, and they wanted more of it. 00:25:09 This was a big test for the Christians who lived back then. 00:25:19 Akil helped me to reason on the scripture 00:25:22 at Romans 12:9: 00:25:26 “Abhor what is wicked; cling to what is good.” 00:25:31 So, Danny, 00:25:33 the games may have changed over time, 00:25:35 but the violence is still the same. 00:25:38 I like video games, 00:25:40 but I avoid the ones that promote what Jehovah hates. 00:25:47 Jehovah’s people can still have fun. 00:26:02 And, yeah, we can even play video games. 00:26:06 I just want to make wise choices. 00:26:13 I want to show Jehovah that I hate wickedness 00:26:23 and make his heart glad. 00:26:35 This video is part of a series of videos. 00:26:39 We’re pleased to announce 00:26:41 that all 17 episodes will be made available 00:26:44 under a new “Principles for Daily Living” category. 00:26:49 It can be found in both the “Family” and “Our Meetings and Ministry” sections. 00:26:55 As we saw in this episode, 00:26:57 our choice of entertainment can affect our worship. 00:27:00 We could be exposing ourselves to Satan’s thinking. 00:27:05 If you’re enticed by entertainment that displeases Jehovah, 00:27:09 what Bible principles will help you? 00:27:12 Chapter 6 of the “God’s Love” book 00:27:15 features a box entitled 00:27:17 “What Entertainment Should I Choose?” 00:27:20 Make the scriptures in this feature 00:27:22 a matter of prayer and discussion in family worship. 00:27:26 They will help you “cling to what is good.” 00:27:30 But at times ‘clinging to the good’ 00:27:33 includes receiving discipline, 00:27:36 which can be painful. 00:27:38 How can we look beyond any pain 00:27:41 to the benefits of divine correction? 00:27:45 At a Bethel morning worship, 00:27:47 Brother Anthony Morris, a member of the Governing Body, 00:27:50 discussed how a proper view of discipline 00:27:54 brings us closer to Jehovah. 00:27:57 This morning 00:27:58 I thought I’d discuss the matter 00:28:00 of how a proper view of discipline 00:28:03 keeps us close to Jehovah. 00:28:05 Now, in the context of today’s text 00:28:08 about Jehovah correcting 00:28:09 to the proper degree, 00:28:11 he’s talking to his people about being brought back to their land. 00:28:15 He was not going to exterminate them or leave them, 00:28:19 and it helps us to appreciate that he wanted them 00:28:23 to keep their relationship with him. 00:28:26 Now, today we receive discipline in various ways. 00:28:30 It might be from personal Bible study. 00:28:34 And I was excited this morning 00:28:36 (I don’t know when it happened, maybe last night) 00:28:39 to see that we have in JW Library® 00:28:41 where we can put our personal notes, 00:28:43 and I got started with some already. 00:28:46 So that’ll be like thoughts or discipline from Jehovah 00:28:49 that is just between him and ourselves 00:28:53 —a very beneficial and wise way to go when it comes to discipline. 00:28:57 It keeps us from veering off in our relationship with him. 00:29:01 It might be something we read in a publication; 00:29:03 might hear in a talk at a meeting, at an assembly, 00:29:07 or convention; something in a JW Broadcast 00:29:10 —various ways, any number of ways Jehovah will discipline us. 00:29:15 And we need to remember 00:29:18 that he does it so that we remain close to him. 00:29:21 The problem is discipline is not easy to take. 00:29:26 It requires humility. 00:29:28 And the proper view of discipline is found here in Proverbs chapter 3, 00:29:34 and this gives us the Scriptural basis 00:29:38 to have this proper view of discipline 00:29:40 that’ll keep us close to Jehovah God. 00:29:43 Now, notice verses 11 and 12 of Proverbs chapter 3: 00:29:48 “My son, do not reject the discipline of Jehovah, 00:29:52 “and do not loathe his reproof, 00:29:55 “for those whom Jehovah loves he reproves, 00:29:59 just as a father does a son in whom he delights.” 00:30:03 So how might we reject the discipline of Jehovah? 00:30:07 Well, put yourself in a position of being counseled. 00:30:11 It’s come to the point where overseers and elders 00:30:15 have had to sit down with you. 00:30:17 Now, for some, as soon as the counsel begins to flow, 00:30:21 there’s this quickness to be upset, 00:30:25 to justify, to feel picked on. 00:30:28 Well, Jehovah is saying, ‘Don’t reject this.’ 00:30:32 If they’re using the Scriptures and thoughts from publications, 00:30:36 view it as coming from Jehovah so that we can stay close to him. 00:30:41 Now, to give you an idea, 00:30:44 sometimes reading something will bring us close to Jehovah, 00:30:48 especially if we veered off and didn’t even realize it. 00:30:52 I’m going to go way back to some examples 00:30:55 of Jehovah’s sheep reading something in The Watchtower, 00:31:00 and it just disciplined them so that they could get close to Jehovah. 00:31:04 And it goes way back to 1982, 00:31:07 and it had to do with TV serials, or soap operas. 00:31:11 Some are saying, “Well, that’s a long time ago.” 00:31:14 Well, the fact is nothing has changed. 00:31:17 Some of these soap operas are still on that had the name 00:31:21 that they had in 1982. 00:31:23 They still have it. 00:31:25 So many readers personally benefited from the counsel. 00:31:29 The counsel still applies that was found there. 00:31:31 But I think it’s very touching and commendable 00:31:34 for the ones who read that that they recognized it. 00:31:39 It impacted their relationship with Jehovah, 00:31:41 and they wanted to get close to him. 00:31:43 Now, the cover on The Watchtower was 00:31:46 “TV Serials—Can They Corrupt the Heart?” 00:31:49 And in the opening article, we did say: 00:31:52 “Millions of women and men of all ages, 00:31:56 races and backgrounds will rarely miss a show.” 00:32:00 Well, now you can record them and have them anytime that you like. 00:32:04 It’s still an ongoing problem and an issue for a true Christian, 00:32:09 a worshipper of Jehovah, to make sure we’re not being corrupted 00:32:13 by soap operas, or TV serials. 00:32:16 Now, after the articles came out, 00:32:19 we had some write in to explain what happened to them. 00:32:24 And so months later, after this 1982 issue of The Watchtower 00:32:29 (that was December 1), 00:32:32 we went to the ’83 Watchtower, December 1, 00:32:35 and here’s the response from some of the readers. 00:32:37 And I found it very commendable. 00:32:40 I think you’ll appreciate the humility because it takes humility 00:32:44 to accept and have the proper view of discipline. 00:32:47 So one of the dangers 00:32:49 that the brothers were warned about is that 00:32:52 you can get emotionally attached to the characters in the show. 00:32:57 So here’s what one wrote: 00:32:59 “I had grown up watching this one soap opera 00:33:02 “and the character ‘Julie’ was just like my ‘friend.’ . . . 00:33:06 “One day ‘Julie’ had an accident 00:33:09 “that left her beautiful face badly scarred . . . 00:33:13 “I was in front of the TV set every day 00:33:15 “to make sure she was going to pull through. 00:33:19 “That night as I was saying my prayers, 00:33:22 “before I even thought what I was saying, 00:33:25 I prayed, ‘And Jehovah, please bless Julie.’” 00:33:31 Well, she admits: “‘I was shocked. 00:33:34 “‘[She should’ve been.] 00:33:37 “‘This plea to Jehovah for Julie had come from my heart!’ 00:33:42 “Realizing how involved she had become, 00:33:44 “she stopped watching these programs. 00:33:47 “She wrote: ‘If all readers 00:33:49 “‘will take your article on TV serials to heart, 00:33:53 “‘they will feel a real sense of freedom, 00:33:56 since our own everyday problems are enough to cope with.’” 00:34:00 So, you see, our sister had the proper view of discipline, 00:34:03 and she was able to keep close to Jehovah. 00:34:08 Now, another one, after expressing appreciation, wrote: 00:34:11 “I realized that I was ‘addicted’ to soap operas, 00:34:15 “and that I had to do something about it. 00:34:17 “I wondered, too, if my relationship with Jehovah could be affected. 00:34:22 “How could I have ‘them’ as friends 00:34:24 “and also be a friend to Jehovah? 00:34:27 “I had to quit all at once 00:34:29 —it was the only way, and how hard it was!” she admits. 00:34:33 So, what did she have to do to break free? 00:34:35 She had to unplug her TV. 00:34:37 She’d go outdoors and work in the garden, call somebody 00:34:41 —anything to stay busy so that she wouldn’t go back 00:34:45 to watching those soap operas. 00:34:48 She took time for personal Bible study 00:34:50 —that’ll keep you close to Jehovah— 00:34:52 preparing for her meetings, and other spiritual things. 00:34:55 And then she confesses: “How much better I felt! 00:34:59 “It has been over two years now [from this last writing] 00:35:03 “since I have seen those so-called friends. 00:35:06 “I must admit that at times I still wonder 00:35:09 “what is going on with them, but I fight it. . . . 00:35:13 Perhaps many others who have not yet broken free will now.” 00:35:17 She says: ‘Thank you, Jehovah and you brothers, 00:35:21 for exposing this “good-for-nothing thing.”’ 00:35:25 Then, finally, this third one says: 00:35:28 “I cried when I read the articles, 00:35:31 “for I discovered that my heart was no longer complete toward Jehovah. 00:35:35 “I promised my God 00:35:37 “that I would no longer be a slave to these serials 00:35:40 “and asked him to help me to get out of my home 00:35:43 “on the day of the program. . . . 00:35:46 “Two days later, I was invited to attend a Bible study 00:35:49 “on the very day and time of ‘my’ serial. 00:35:52 “I happily accepted. . . . 00:35:54 “[and notice] I now feel closer to Jehovah, 00:35:58 “and my relationship with him is more intimate. 00:36:02 How good Jehovah is to discipline us through his Word!” 00:36:06 Yes, she had the proper view of discipline. 00:36:10 Now, finally, let’s look in Hebrews chapter 12, 00:36:16 and we appreciate these sincere comments 00:36:18 and the counsel there certainly applies. 00:36:22 Any kind of entertainment 00:36:24 that has that corrupting influence 00:36:27 would be avoided by a true Christian. 00:36:30 So here at Hebrews chapter 12, 00:36:33 notice verse 11: 00:36:36 “True, no discipline seems for the present to be joyous, 00:36:40 “but it is painful; 00:36:42 “yet afterward, it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness 00:36:46 to those who have been trained by it.” 00:36:48 So discipline is painful, 00:36:51 but “the peaceable fruit of righteousness” 00:36:53 makes it worth it to have a proper view of the discipline 00:36:57 and to accept it humbly 00:37:00 so that we can remain close to our precious Father, Jehovah. 00:37:06 Discipline helps us reshape our thinking and actions, 00:37:09 drawing us closer to our Grand Creator. 00:37:13 It may come from God’s Word, 00:37:15 publications produced by “the faithful and discreet slave,” 00:37:18 a parent, or mature fellow Christians. 00:37:23 No matter how we receive discipline, 00:37:25 always remember what Proverbs 3:12 says: 00:37:29 “Those whom Jehovah loves he reproves, 00:37:32 just as a father does a son in whom he delights.” 00:37:37 But what if the world’s thinking has molded you, 00:37:40 not by choice, but by circumstance? 00:37:44 You’ll appreciate the story of sister Guzel Gainanshina, 00:37:48 who was not raised as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. 00:37:51 In her youth, Guzel searched for fulfillment 00:37:54 through competitive sports. 00:37:56 Even though she achieved some level of success, 00:37:59 what helped her to find a true purpose in life? 00:38:06 I lived in the north, with the glorious dark, starlit sky 00:38:10 and the beauty of fir trees. 00:38:12 I thought it was the most wonderful place in the world. 00:38:14 My mom was always drawing my attention to the beauty of creation. 00:38:18 And she always told me, 00:38:20 “My daughter, it’s so important to live your life in the right way.” 00:38:23 And the questions that stayed with me were: 00:38:25 ‘So why are we alive? 00:38:28 Why is there so much suffering, injustice, pain?’ 00:38:32 When I was 18, I took up a form of karate 00:38:35 known as Kyokushinkai. 00:38:39 Just imagine a large number of people in kimonos, standing in rows 00:38:42 bravely and without a shadow of fear, 00:38:44 working on improving their blows and striving to progress. 00:38:47 I thought: ‘This is it! This is what I’ve been looking for!’ 00:38:51 I set the goal of reaching the next world championships, 00:38:53 winning a high place, 00:38:55 and immortalizing myself so that my name would remain 00:38:58 and generations would remember me. 00:39:05 Among those sportsmen, although I saw a lot of nice words and slogans, 00:39:08 not everything was as pure as I’d hoped for. 00:39:13 And then on one occasion, I was sitting down 00:39:17 and feelings of emptiness 00:39:19 just wouldn’t leave me alone. 00:39:21 And for the first time in my life, 00:39:24 I talked to God. 00:39:26 And then I prayed: 00:39:28 “I don’t understand you. 00:39:30 “Why is there so much beauty in the world 00:39:34 “and yet so much suffering? 00:39:38 “Is that really what you want 00:39:40 —for us to live like this?” 00:39:41 I prayed, I guess, for about four hours. 00:39:45 You know, the strongest feeling of emptiness and loneliness 00:39:49 is that of a creation 00:39:51 without its Creator. 00:39:53 And I was so lonely at that time. 00:39:58 And a while afterwards, there was a knock at my door. 00:40:02 It was Jehovah’s Witnesses. 00:40:08 I started studying the Bible. 00:40:09 It was so wonderful! 00:40:13 On one occasion, the sister who studied with me 00:40:16 looked up at me, and when she looked at those bruises 00:40:19 and those beaten-up knuckles, 00:40:22 she took a deep breath and shook her head. 00:40:25 I said, “Is there something wrong?” 00:40:28 She said, “You know, I’m in great pain.” 00:40:31 I said, “Why are you in pain?” 00:40:34 She said: “Well, 00:40:35 “I’m looking at your hands, your elbows, your battered legs, all of that. 00:40:39 Doesn’t it hurt?” 00:40:42 I said, “Well, yes.” 00:40:45 And she said, “You know, it hurts me to see you in pain.” 00:40:50 And I started to understand that Jehovah is the true God 00:40:53 and that this really was the truth. 00:40:57 It was difficult. 00:40:58 The pressure from relatives and friends was very strong. 00:41:02 But the most difficult thing 00:41:04 that I had to battle with was my strong attachment to karate. 00:41:09 Just a year remained until the world championships. 00:41:11 I had prepared for them. 00:41:13 I had been working toward that goal for five years. 00:41:17 Glory can seem really sweet 00:41:20 when you are the victor, when your opponents fall to the ground. 00:41:29 So I flew to the world championships. 00:41:31 When I made it to the last four winners 00:41:34 and I had to fight for third place, 00:41:37 I wanted to ask my trainer to let me stop. Why? 00:41:39 Because I couldn’t feel a single place on my body 00:41:43 —everything was beaten up. 00:41:45 But he said: 00:41:46 “You know, we love you so much. Go for it!” 00:41:50 And at that moment, it felt as though I was weighing love 00:41:54 —the world’s love 00:41:55 and the love of Jehovah’s organization. 00:41:58 It seemed to me that the world was saying: 00:42:00 “We love you. Now just go and die!” 00:42:04 But the love in the organization says, 00:42:06 “It hurts me to see you in pain.” 00:42:09 I realized that the world can’t give you what it doesn’t have. 00:42:13 It doesn’t know how to love. 00:42:15 But, nevertheless, I went to the fight 00:42:17 and became the bronze medalist. 00:42:22 And when I stood on the podium of glory, 00:42:25 I understood that glory among people who don’t love you 00:42:29 weighs no more than emptiness. 00:42:33 If a person dedicates his life 00:42:35 to glorifying himself, he will always meet 00:42:38 with disappointment and emptiness. 00:42:40 So I made the firm decision to escape from karate. 00:42:45 I started preaching, and I was baptized in 2005 00:42:47 at the summer convention in Kurgan. 00:42:52 Later, I started full-time service. 00:42:54 I learned the Tatar language so that I could serve in that territory. 00:43:00 Now, when in the evenings 00:43:02 I look up at the starry sky, I feel not hopelessness, 00:43:06 but tremendous joy 00:43:09 because I know who is behind it all: 00:43:12 our loving Creator, Jehovah God. 00:43:22 Guzel had been “molded by this system of things,” 00:43:25 but she was “transformed by making [her] mind over.” 00:43:29 The literal cuts and bruises Guzel suffered healed with time, 00:43:33 but she found true comfort from the One described at Psalm 147:3, 00:43:38 who “heals the brokenhearted” 00:43:41 and who “binds up” the emotional “wounds” 00:43:43 inflicted by this system of things. 00:43:47 Her example shows that no matter our situation or background, 00:43:50 the beautiful truths of God’s Word can change us. 00:43:56 It may feel like a leap of faith 00:43:58 to leave behind secular pursuits to reach spiritual goals. 00:44:03 Some have made this leap after investing years 00:44:06 of training, education, and financial resources 00:44:10 toward a career in the world. 00:44:14 If that’s true for you, 00:44:16 rest assured that you are not alone. 00:44:19 Our next segment will introduce you to young ones 00:44:23 who resisted the pressure to conform 00:44:25 to the world’s view of success. 00:44:31 Right now I am serving in the Central America branch, 00:44:34 and I have the opportunity to work with extraordinary brothers and sisters 00:44:38 —both here and in other parts of the world. 00:44:41 My name is Rogelio. 00:44:43 I’m part of the Art Department, 00:44:44 and I’m a digital illustrator. 00:44:48 Music really means the world to me. 00:44:50 I am Joyce; I’m a pioneer, 00:44:53 and I sing alto in the Bethel chorus. 00:44:59 My name is Lou-Len, 00:45:01 and I serve as a regular pioneer in a congregation where there’s a need. 00:45:04 I love doing that. 00:45:06 My life is wonderful. 00:45:09 Seeing people’s faces light up when you teach them God’s name 00:45:12 or when you tell them of Jehovah’s promises for us 00:45:16 fills me with great joy. 00:45:19 My name is Josué Martell. 00:45:20 I serve as a regular pioneer 00:45:22 and as an elder in the congregation. 00:45:26 Ever since I was little, 00:45:28 I’ve always loved playing soccer, and that was my biggest dream. 00:45:31 My goal was to become a professional soccer player. 00:45:35 The truth is, setting goals was always difficult for me 00:45:38 because I always had two passions, 00:45:41 ‘Am I a servant of Jehovah or an artist?’ 00:45:45 My goal was to become the best gymnast in the world. 00:45:48 At that moment, 00:45:50 gymnastics were number one in my life. 00:45:54 I played at big festivals. 00:45:57 Standing ovations 00:46:00 —that was amazing. 00:46:03 I was surrounded by non-Witnesses 00:46:06 who were using drugs, smoking, and swearing. 00:46:09 My trainer had mapped out a complete training program 00:46:13 with the Olympics as a goal. 00:46:17 This made me feel trapped. 00:46:19 I started thinking, ‘What do I want to do with my life?’ 00:46:22 More importantly, ‘What does Jehovah want?’ 00:46:26 When I was studying design, I was already a regular pioneer. 00:46:29 It wasn’t easy for me to come to the understanding 00:46:31 that the one who really matters is Jehovah. 00:46:34 When I was 16 years old, 00:46:37 different teams started offering me high-paying contracts. 00:46:41 I felt a lot of pressure, and it was a temptation 00:46:44 because they would constantly call me and come to my house. 00:46:47 I noticed that when the players played the sport, 00:46:51 they were happy, but afterwards they weren’t. 00:46:55 My mother was in the full-time service, and I saw her happiness. 00:47:00 That motivated me because I too wanted 00:47:03 to experience that lasting happiness. 00:47:05 I felt a little guilty when I thought of how much of myself 00:47:08 I was giving to design and art and all of that. 00:47:11 So that’s when I made my decision. 00:47:13 I decided to leave university and focus on my service. 00:47:18 I realized that for a long time I hadn’t been growing spiritually. 00:47:21 I prayed intensely to Jehovah. 00:47:26 I asked: “Do I know you? 00:47:28 Do I live the way you would want?” 00:47:33 And after that, 00:47:35 I stopped performing with non-Witnesses. 00:47:43 I prayed to Jehovah. 00:47:45 And then, at the convention, 00:47:47 we received the DVD Young People Ask —What Will I Do With My Life? 00:47:51 That really was Jehovah’s answer 00:47:53 to my prayer. 00:47:57 In the Bible it says 00:47:59 that “the truth will set you free.” 00:48:01 That freedom is something I never used to feel. 00:48:05 I love working together with other sisters in the ministry 00:48:08 and seeing how they share my enthusiasm for making return visits 00:48:12 and conducting Bible studies. 00:48:13 It’s just wonderful to see! 00:48:17 To wake up each day knowing 00:48:19 that I am going to do something new for Jehovah is extraordinary. 00:48:23 It’s an unbelievable blessing; it’s like living a dream. 00:48:26 I feel that I belong to a global organization 00:48:29 and we are all going in the same direction. 00:48:32 It’s something really wonderful for me. 00:48:35 To sing for Jehovah is the most beautiful privilege 00:48:38 I could ever imagine. 00:48:40 One of the biggest blessings 00:48:43 is that I have a real friendship with Jehovah 00:48:46 and friendships with my brothers and sisters —young or old. 00:48:49 It doesn’t matter. 00:48:52 I am really happy that when Jehovah looks at me, 00:48:55 I feel his approval. 00:48:57 That makes me happy. 00:49:00 My trust in Jehovah has grown stronger. 00:49:03 The way I communicate with him continues to improve. 00:49:06 And I also love my assignment 00:49:09 of being a regular pioneer, an elder, and being able to support 00:49:12 the brothers and sisters. 00:49:14 To continue to be among Jehovah’s people, 00:49:16 that’s the joy I was looking for 00:49:18 —and I found it! 00:49:22 The world tries to pass off the thrill of recognition or fame as fulfillment, 00:49:27 but do not be deceived. 00:49:29 These fine examples show that doing your best for Jehovah 00:49:33 leads to real contentment. 00:49:36 His smile of approval is worth 00:49:38 more than any accolade this system of things could ever bestow. 00:49:43 Satan works tirelessly 00:49:46 to wear us down physically and emotionally. 00:49:49 How can we have the courage 00:49:51 to stand up to challenges and pressures to give up? 00:49:55 The loving support true Christians give to one another 00:49:59 is illustrated in this month’s music video, 00:50:02 entitled Do Not Be Afraid. 00:50:30 It’s hard to see clear when challenges appear. 00:50:42 We get lost inside the emotions we feel. 00:50:55 When adversity strikes us down, 00:51:00 No need to stay on the ground. 00:51:05 Look up; Reach out. 00:51:10 Do not be afraid, for He is with us, 00:51:17 Saving us with His right hand of righteousness. 00:51:22 So when it gets hard sometimes, 00:51:28 We need to remember we’re not alone. 00:51:37 No, we’re never alone. 00:51:41 Just pray; Do not be afraid. 00:51:55 He gives us friends who stick by our side. 00:52:06 Their prayers of faith and love are always right on time. 00:52:19 And each day when we read His Word, 00:52:25 It gives us the strength to endure. 00:52:30 When we’re down, We’ll reach out. 00:52:36 Do not be afraid, for He is with us, 00:52:42 Saving us with His right hand of righteousness. 00:52:47 So when it gets hard sometimes, 00:52:54 We need to remember we’re not alone. 00:53:02 No, we’re never alone. Just pray. 00:53:09 So when those dark clouds come rolling in, 00:53:15 Hold your head high. It’ll be all right. 00:53:55 Do not be afraid, for He is with us, 00:54:01 Saving us with His right hand of righteousness. 00:54:07 So when it gets hard sometimes, 00:54:12 We need to remember we’re not alone. 00:54:21 No, we’re never alone. 00:54:25 Just pray; Do not be afraid. 00:54:52 The heartfelt appeal of that song 00:54:55 brings to mind the words of Isaiah 41:10, 00:54:58 where we’re encouraged: 00:55:00 “Do not be afraid, for I am with you. 00:55:03 “Do not be anxious, for I am your God. 00:55:07 “I will fortify you, yes, I will help you, 00:55:10 I will really hold on to you with my right hand of righteousness.” 00:55:16 Be assured that you will receive help 00:55:18 from our heavenly Father, Jehovah, 00:55:20 and from fellow believers 00:55:22 to resist being molded by this system. 00:55:26 To conclude, we bring you greetings 00:55:29 from Maraã, in the state of Amazonas 00:55:32 in northern Brazil. 00:55:34 Nestled in the Amazon rain forest along the Japurá River, 00:55:38 there are no roads leading to this city; 00:55:41 it can only be reached by river. 00:55:44 For most travelers, reaching the city is a three-day journey, 00:55:48 which involves sleeping in hammocks along the way. 00:55:52 Around 18,000 people inhabit the area, 00:55:56 but because of its remote location, 00:55:58 many people have never had the opportunity to hear the good news. 00:56:03 With that in mind, along with several other cities, 00:56:08 Maraã was included in the Amazonas national preaching campaign. 00:56:12 The goal of this special campaign was to reach the thousands of people 00:56:16 who live in some of Amazon’s most isolated areas. 00:56:20 As a result, many willing brothers and sisters 00:56:23 moved here to serve where the need is greater. 00:56:27 Since the city is completely surrounded by rivers, 00:56:31 publishers reach interested ones by boat. 00:56:35 Special pioneers have played a large part in cultivating interest 00:56:39 by using this method of preaching. 00:56:42 One of the 23 congregations that was formed 00:56:46 as a result of the special campaign 00:56:48 is located here. 00:56:51 Today, more than 20 publishers in the congregation 00:56:54 are conducting at least 100 Bible studies. 00:56:59 And we’re happy to report that in 2017 00:57:03 the first local family was baptized. 00:57:06 Our dear brothers and sisters are working hard to help 00:57:10 those in the Amazon region to learn about Jehovah, 00:57:13 and they send their warm love 00:57:15 and greetings to all of us 00:57:17 around the globe. 00:57:20 Thank you for joining us this month. 00:57:22 As always, this is JW Broadcasting 00:57:25 from the world headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
